Fringed with golden sand and swaying palms, Candolim is a laid-back beach resort in Goa with an infectious holiday vibe. Spend your days basking on Candolim Beach, exploring historic sites and touring tropical spice farms.

Things to do

It's hard to resist the allure of Candolim Beach, a golden stretch of sand backing onto the sparkling Arabian Sea. The beach is lined with wooden beach shacks and colourful sun lounges. Snag a spot and spend the day sipping on Kingfishers and snacking on pakoras.

Candolim also offers fantastic snorkelling and diving, with nearby sites, such as Netrani Island, known for crystal-clear visibility, colourful tropical fish and cruising sea turtles. If you don't want to get your feet wet, rent a kayak or sign up for a scenic boat tour.

Looking for historic sites? Perched on a headland, Aguada Fort was built by the Portuguese in the early 1600s and is a fantastic place to watch the sunset. You can also visit Church of St. Lawrence, a whitewashed place of worship that commands sweeping views over the coast.

Centuries ago, the Portuguese coveted Goa for its myriad of exotic spices. Today you can find out more about the state's flourishing industry at local spice farms. Set in lush grounds, Sahakari Farms is known for its cashews, vanilla beans, cinnamon trees and black pepper.

Getting around

Candolim is easy to get around on foot, with a handful of beaches within walking distance. Motorbikes and scooters are a great way to explore the Goan countryside. Goa International Airport is a one-hour drive south.